Saxenda Dosing for Weight Loss

What Is Saxenda (Liraglutide) & How Is It Used?

Saxenda, containing the active ingredient liraglutide, is an FDA-approved medication for weight management. It’s used alongside a reduced-calorie diet and increased physical activity. Saxenda is suitable for adults with a BMI of 30 kg/m2 or more, or 27 kg/m2 or more with weight-related conditions. It’s also approved for adolescents aged 12 and up, meeting specific weight criteria.¹ FDA approval means that a drug has been thoroughly evaluated via clinical trials for safety and effectiveness.

Saxenda helps control weight by regulating appetite. Avoid combining it with certain medications. Its safety in young patients with type 2 diabetes is uncertain. Always consult a healthcare professional.

Saxenda Form & Strengths

Saxenda is available as an injectable solution with a strength of 6 mg/mL. It comes in a convenient 3 mL pre-filled pen for single-patient use. The pen delivers flexible doses, ranging from 0.6 mg to 3 mg. The appropriate form and strength are determined by factors such as age and the specific condition being treated. Healthcare professionals tailor the prescription to individual needs.

Saxenda is available in the following strengths:

• 0.6 mg
• 1.2 mg
• 1.8 mg
• 2.4 mg
• 3 mg

Adherence to Saxenda’s prescribed dosages, ranging from 0.6 mg to 3 mg, is vital for effective weight management. Use the pre-filled pen to inject the clear solution subcutaneously, following your healthcare provider’s guidance on injection technique and site rotation.

How to Take Saxenda

To take Saxenda for weight loss, administer it subcutaneously (under the skin) in the abdomen, thigh, or upper arm once daily at any time, regardless of meals. Your nurse will show you how to do it and can make sure you are injecting it correctly before you start doing it on your own. The recommended starting dose is 0.6 mg per day, increasing weekly until reaching the target dose of 3 mg.¹

Pediatric patients should start at 0.6 mg, with dose adjustments made based on tolerance. The dosage escalation for pediatric patients may take up to 8 weeks. For adult patients with type 2 diabetes, monitoring blood glucose before and during Saxenda treatment is advised. Always follow healthcare provider instructions for optimal results.

Do I Need to Take Saxenda at the Same Time Every Day?

While you have the flexibility to use Saxenda at any time, with or without food, establishing a consistent routine is recommended. Choose the time of day that works best for you and maintain it. This helps in maintaining a regular schedule and promoting adherence to your weight management plan

Saxenda Dosing Schedule for Weight Loss in Adults

Saxenda for weight loss can often be an effective treatment for obesity in adults, designed to be used alongside a reduced-calorie diet and increased physical activity.

Here is Saxenda dosage information for adults with obesity:¹

• Month 1: Initiate with 0.6 mg once daily
• Month 2: Increase to 1.2 mg once daily
• Month 3: Adjust to 1.8 mg once daily
• Month 4: Progress to 2.4 mg once daily
• Month 5 and beyond: Maintain at 3.0 mg once daily for ongoing weight management. Dosages may be personalized based on individual response and tolerability. Always follow healthcare provider recommendations.

Saxenda Dosing Schedule for Weight Loss in Children & Adolescents

Saxenda is an option for treating obesity in children and adolescents aged 12 and up, in conjunction with a reduced-calorie diet and increased physical activity. Dosages for this age group may vary from standard adult dosages due to individual factors such as weight and tolerance.

Here is Saxenda dosage information for children and adolescents with obesity:¹

• Month 1: Initiate with 0.6 mg once daily
• Month 2: Increase to 1.2 mg once daily
• Month 3: Adjust to 1.8 mg once daily
• Month 4: Progress to 2.4 mg once daily
• Month 5 and beyond: Maintain 3.0 mg daily as the recommended maintenance dosage. Pediatric patients who do not tolerate 3 mg daily may have their dose reduced to 2.4 mg daily. Dose adjustments may take up to 8 weeks. Evaluate the change in BMI after 12 weeks, and discontinue Saxenda if a reduction of at least 1% from baseline is not achieved. Always consult with a healthcare professional for personalized guidance.

Factors Influencing Saxenda Dosage

Several factors can influence the dosage of Saxenda, including individual health conditions and concurrent use of other medications. Patients with certain health conditions or taking medications that interact with Saxenda may require dosage restrictions or adjustments. Factors such as age, weight, and overall health may also play a role in determining the appropriate dosage.

Healthcare professionals carefully consider these factors to tailor Saxenda dosages for optimal effectiveness and safety. Discuss your medical history and any medications you are currently taking with your provider.

Do Doctors Recommend Dose Escalations With Saxenda?

Yes, doctors may recommend dose escalations with Saxenda as part of a personalized weight management plan. Saxenda is often initiated at a lower dose, such as 0.6 mg, and gradually increased over several weeks to a maintenance dose, commonly 3.0 mg. This gradual escalation helps individuals acclimate to the medication, reducing the risk of side effects and optimizing its effectiveness.²

Healthcare providers monitor patient response and tolerance, adjusting the dosage accordingly. Dose escalations are a common practice to achieve the desired therapeutic effect while minimizing potential adverse effects.

What If I Miss a Dose of Saxenda?

If you miss a dose of Saxenda, resume your prescription as soon as you remember. However, abrupt discontinuation or irregular dosing may lead to potential withdrawal effects, including a resurgence of appetite and diminished weight loss benefits. Some individuals may be tempted to stop taking Saxenda when they start feeling better or experience initial side effects in the first weeks, often before the body fully adjusts.

Taking your medication consistently is key for sustained weight management. Even when experiencing early side effects, these often diminish over time as the body adjusts. Stopping Saxenda prematurely can hinder progress, emphasizing the importance of ongoing commitment to the prescribed treatment plan to maximize its effectiveness in achieving weight loss goals.

Disclaimer: You should never suddenly stop taking your medication. Talk with your healthcare provider if you would like to stop taking your medication. They will help you create a plan to taper (slowly reduce) the medication to help avoid withdrawal symptoms.

What If I Take Too Much Saxenda?

Seek immediate medical attention if you believe you’ve taken too much Saxenda. Adverse effects from taking too much Saxenda may include severe nausea, vomiting, and hypoglycemia (low blood sugar). Saxenda overdosages have been reported in clinical trials and since its release on the market, so patients should remain aware of this risk throughout treatment.

Symptoms of Saxenda overdose may include:

• Severe nausea
• Severe vomiting
• Severe hypoglycemia
• Dehydration
• Dizziness or lightheadedness
• Abdominal pain
• Fatigue
• Unexplained sweating
• Rapid heartbeat
• Confusion

Saxenda Dosage FAQs

Here are some frequently asked questions about Saxenda dosage:

Are There Any Risks to Taking Saxenda Long-term?

While Saxenda has shown effectiveness in promoting weight loss, potential risks may be associated with long-term use. Some individuals may experience side effects, such as nausea or digestive issues, which can affect their quality of life.

Long-term effects on the pancreas have been observed in animal studies, raising concerns about this risk in humans.³ It is crucial to discuss any concerns about Saxenda’s long-term use with your healthcare provider, who can weigh the potential risks against the benefits based on your health profile.

How Long Does it Take Saxenda to Work?

The effectiveness of Saxenda in promoting weight loss varies among individuals. While some people may begin experiencing weight loss within the first 2 to 4 weeks of starting treatment, significant results, such as at least a 5% reduction in body weight, are typically observed after 8 weeks.

How Long Do I Need to Take Saxenda for Weight Loss?

The duration for taking Saxenda for weight loss can vary based on individual responses and weight management goals. While some individuals may begin to see results within the first two to four weeks, clinical trials have shown significant weight loss of at least 5% after eight weeks of treatment.

The decision on how long to continue Saxenda is typically made in consultation with your healthcare provider. They will assess your progress and help determine the most appropriate duration of your weight management timeline.

Can I Adjust My Saxenda Dosage on My Own?

It is not recommended to adjust your Saxenda dosage on your own. Any adjustments to your Saxenda dosage should be made under the guidance and supervision of your healthcare provider.

Your healthcare provider will prescribe a specific dosage based on factors such as your weight, overall health, and individual response to the medication. Changing your dosage without professional advice can lead to potential risks, including suboptimal efficacy or an increased likelihood of side effects.

Can I Stop Taking Saxenda Once I Reach My Weight Loss Goal?

Continue Saxenda as per your healthcare provider’s recommendations, as abruptly stopping medication may impact the maintenance of achieved weight loss. Always consult your healthcare provider before making any changes to your treatment plan.

Can I Skip Doses If I Feel the Medication Is Working Well?

Always take Saxenda as prescribed. Skipping doses can affect the medication’s efficacy, potentially hindering your weight management progress.

Questions to Ask Your Healthcare Team About Saxenda Dosage

You may have questions about appropriate Saxenda dosage, potential adjustments, and an expected timeline for results. Talking with your provider can help you gain clarity about your treatment plan with Saxenda.

Here are some frequently asked questions about Saxenda dosage:

• Am I a candidate for Saxenda?
• Will my Saxenda dosage change if I switch to another weight-loss medication?
• How long does it take for a person to start losing weight while taking Saxenda?
• How long after taking my first dose might I experience side effects?
• What do I do if I decide I want to stop taking Saxenda?
• Can I adjust my Saxenda dosage on my own?
• Are there specific times of the day I should take Saxenda?
• Can I consume alcohol while taking Saxenda?
• What should I do if I forget to take a dose of Saxenda?
• Can Saxenda be used in combination with other weight loss products or supplements?
• Are there coupons for Saxenda to help me save on my prescription?